Information and FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

Airport and hotel transfers and tours in Panama City?

…Airport pick up? highly recommended

Unless you are seasoned travelers and dont mind the airport exit confusion, I strongly advise you to connect Jose Saenz in Panama City to pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel or to your connection Air Panama flight to Bocas. It will cost you a regular taxi fare. If you have time, he will take you on a day tour of Panama City and the Canal, or shopping, or both. I have been doing business with Jose for many years and have had nothing but raving reviews. It is reassuring to know that someone will be waiting for you once you get here and you wont have to battle the hoards of taxi drivers trying to catch a fare.

Hotel Recommendation in Panama City?

Tryp Panama at Albrook Mall

I always stay at the TRYP hotel at Albrook. Best deal is usually booking.com It is across the street from the Albrook Airport and your flight to Bocas. Quite a few of my guests go the historical area called Casco Viejo and stay at one of the more”character” hotels there.

How to Get to Bocas del Toro

From Boquete

From Puerto Viejo

The Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo in Costa Rica is a short journey from Bocas. Caribe Shuttle arranges transport twice daily, 8am and 12pm. Shuttle vans pick up passengers from their hotel in Puerto Viejo, take them to the border, seamlessly organize the border crossing (which is KEY if you don’t speak Spanish), provide shuttle service to Almirante, and put passengers on the boat to Bocas Town. Everything is included and well organized making it by far the easiest way to do the crossing.

From Panama City

Fly 45 min

Air Panama flights connect Panama City with Bocas Town in just 45 minutes several times per day. This is definitely the easiest, though most expensive option. The airport in Bocas Town is a short walk to the boat docks and most hotels.

Bus +Boat, $35, 11-14 hours

Overnight buses ($30) leave Panama City daily and arrive in Almirante in the morning. From there you can catch a water taxi ($5) for about 30 minutes to Bocas Town. If you go with this option, bundle up for the bus ride because the night buses in Panama are notoriously cold.

How to get to Monkey Tree from Bocas Town?

Take any taxi to Monkey Tree $3-$4 per person…10 min.

Special Choices this Year

FAQ

Why bring flash lights?

We live on a small island that depends on an electric generator to supply our electricity. Normally, we have constant service, but there are times when the lights will be cut. Not to worry, the lights usually go out for a short time only. Thank you in advance for conserving water and electricity.

Are mosquitoes a concern?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Malaria is rare, and you should NOT need to take any anti malarial pills or vaccinations when you come to Panama.

Can we drink the water?

Because you are not accustomed to the water here, you should buy bottled water. New this year, we are providing free pure filtered water in each house. (0.1 micron filter by Sawyer)

What should we bring with us ?

Surf walkers, thongs, mask and snorkel, binoculars, a beach towel if you need one. COOL CLOTHES ONLY. Bring one warm garment for the flight or if you wish to take a Panama Bocas bus!